Italy’s Defence Minister, Guido Crosetto, has condemned a reported drone attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), which was attempting to breach Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid. Crosetto indicated that he ordered an Italian Navy frigate to assist the 52 boats of the GSF, predominantly located off the coast of Crete, particularly given the presence of Italian citizens on board.
The GSF claimed several boats experienced explosions and reported drones overhead, accusing Israel of escalating tensions. While the Israeli government has remained silent about this incident, it has previously stated its intention to prevent the flotilla from reaching Gaza. The GSF aims to “break the illegal siege on Gaza by sea,” asserting its goal is to deliver humanitarian aid directly to the region.
Onboard participants reported experiencing various disturbances, with some mentioning the use of “sound bombs” and flashbangs. While initial claims included at least 13 explosions, some reports stated that no damage occurred. However, a later statement from GSF described incidents involving “explosive and incendiary devices,” and alleged that emergency communication devices were disabled. Passengers reportedly requested assistance from the Greek coastguard, which dispatched a Portuguese vessel from Frontex to investigate but found no evidence of damage.
The Israeli foreign ministry alleged that the flotilla was organized by Hamas and reiterated its stance against allowing vessels into what it considers an active combat zone. The ministry has suggested that if the flotilla’s intentions were genuinely humanitarian, it should dock at Ashkelon Marina to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza.
The GSF’s campaign follows reports of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by food shortages and casualties linked to malnutrition. This follows a military campaign by Israel initiated after a Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in a significant number of casualties on both sides. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, previously aligned with Israel, has adjusted its stance amid shifting public opinion and domestic political pressures related to the ongoing conflict.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce3yz939qnpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss